Millstone, West Africa (probably Ghana), 20th century

Descriptio Stone. Dimensions: approx. 66 × 66 × 8.5 cm. Millstone used for grinding wheat and other cereals. Originally, grain was ground manually using a stone rubbed against a flat surface; later, this system evolved into the use of mills composed of two superimposed stones, operated by hand, which allowed the grain to be transformed into flour. The mill operates in pairs, with a lower stone or bedstone and a rotating upper stone or runner stone, both equipped with a characteristic grooved pattern that facilitates the transport of the grain between the intersecting channels. As they rotate, the grooves of both stones act similarly to scissors, causing the deformation and fragmentation of the grain until it is completely ground. A representative object of the material culture and traditional subsistence techniques of rural Africa, of notable ethnographic and decorative interest. Lot in international warehouse (within the EU). Intra-EU shipping: no import duties apply within the EU. An export permit from the country of origin may be required. Due to its age and history of use, this lot may show signs of wear and previous interventions. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, no specialized technical testing has been performed. The absence of any mention of restorations does not guarantee that none exist. You may request additional information before placing a bid. This does not affect the buyer’s statutory rights.

Estimate:£3,337.32

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